ITAA - KSCT Joint Symposium

Shaping Professional Identity and Career Readiness: The Influence of Experiential Learning Field Trips in Undergraduate Fashion Education

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Abstract

Experiential learning field trips offer undergraduate students meaningful immersion in real-world environments, strengthening both technical competencies and professional identity formation. Despite growing evidence of their benefits, limited research has examined how structured Study Tours influence career readiness among Fashion Design and Merchandising (FDM) students. This study investigated a one-day immersive Study Tour involving visits to retailers, local boutiques, a formal networking dinner, and a regional fashion show. Twenty undergraduate participants completed reflective essays capturing their learning and personal growth. Thematic analysis revealed notable shifts in students’ self-concept, career aspirations, and perceived skill sets. Participants reported increased confidence, clearer professional goals, and greater understanding of industry expectations, aligning with Kolb’s experiential learning cycle and prior findings that authentic, hands-on experiences deepen engagement and strengthen professional identity. These results highlight the transformative potential of short-term, discipline-specific immersion experiences and underscore the value of integrating reflective activities into experiential learning pedagogy.

Keywords: experiential learning, career readiness, industry immersion

How to Cite:

Uriyo, A. & Moretz, C. A., (2025) “Shaping Professional Identity and Career Readiness: The Influence of Experiential Learning Field Trips in Undergraduate Fashion Education”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.22003